Title: Navigating Insurance Claims When Using Loyalty Points to Rent a Vehicle
In the world of travel and vehicle rental, loyalty programs and credit card benefits can significantly reduce costs—sometimes to just a few dollars. However, as straightforward as this may seem, complexities can arise—particularly when insurance claims are involved.
Recently, I rented a vehicle from Enterprise using their online booking platform and applied loyalty points to minimize the expense. At the rental location, I was only billed $5.47 — the balance after applying my points. I settled this amount entirely with my Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card.
For those familiar with premium credit card benefits, the Chase Sapphire Reserve offers primary car rental insurance, provided the full rental amount is charged to the card and the rental company’s CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) is declined. I took these steps accordingly.
However, during the rental period, I was involved in a minor accident. I returned the vehicle and promptly filed a claim through the insurance provided by CSR, managed by Virginia Surety/Assurant. This coverage has served me reliably in the past, but in this case, I have encountered unexpected resistance.
The insurance provider is requesting a credit card billing statement that displays the total rental charge. I’ve submitted the original statement showing the $5.47 payment, along with the rental date and details. Despite this, they continue to insist on an alternative form of documentation and seem to overlook the proof I’ve provided.
This situation raises concerns: Am I possibly facing claim denial because I used loyalty points to reduce the rental fee? Does the insurer see $5.47 as the “full rental cost,” or could their criteria require a higher billed amount for coverage to apply?
Key details include:
- The entire amount charged at the rental counter was $5.47.
- I actively declined the rental company’s CDW.
- The CSR benefits stipulate that the full rental cost must be charged to the credit card, with no mention of restrictions related to discounts or points.
Had I been aware that using points might complicate insurance claims, I might have paid in cash or used another payment method. Unfortunately, in my haste to catch a flight with family, I didn’t think through these implications.
If anyone has faced a similar situation or has insight into the legal or procedural aspects of such claims, your guidance would be appreciated. Are there any steps I can take to contest this denial or clarify the documentation requirements? Thanks in advance for your support
